Fastest online doctor’s appointment

Whether you’re too busy to wait for the doctor, need fast access to a script, or are seeking reassurance about symptoms in the middle of the night, you may want to find a convenient 24/7 telehealth provider with minimal wait times. While many services offer same-day appointments, there are only a handful that provide access to doctors within 15 minutes. MediCompare has rounded up some of the most popular ones, so you can choose the best one for you without trawling the web.

Key Points to Consider

• Immediate Availability: How quickly does the telehealth provider offer doctors’ consultations? (No access to repeat scripts or medical certificates.)
• Opening Hours: Some services have 24/7 care, while others provide extended hours only. (Times given in AEST.)
• Ease of Use: Some providers require you to download their app, while others call your mobile phone or connect via their website. Choose a service that matches your preferences.
• Access to Specialised Care: Most telehealth providers offer consults with AHPRA-registered doctors, a few guarantee more highly trained GPs, and some offer access to doctors specialising in emergency care.
• Medication Delivery/ Pick-Up: While it may be quickest to pick up any prescribed medication at a pharmacy nearby (maybe a night pharmacy, if required), some services offer delivery within two hours to metro areas.
• Cost: Some private providers offer bulk-billing for eligible patients or after hours. It is worthwhile checking before booking. The prices indicated below are for fast doctors’ consultations at the respective services.

• Docto: Within 7 minutes, 24/7, no system requirements, GPs and specialists, no information on medication delivery, $79.
• OurSage: Usually within 10 minutes, 7 am to 11 pm, no system requirements, GP consults, no delivery service, $69 (including priority fee).
• Hola Health: Within 15 minutes, 24/7, no specific system requirements, AHPRA-registered doctors, medication delivery within 2 hours, from $39 to $55 (long consults and after-hour care cost more), but some scripts and mental health care are bulk-billed.
• TerryWhite Chemmart: Within 15 minutes, 24/7, no system requirements, GP consults, 2-hour delivery to some areas, or Click and Collect, $49 or $69 after hours.
• Qoctor: 15-minute priority bookings available, 9 am to 9 pm on weekdays, GP consultation, pharmacy concierge service to chosen pharmacy or partner pharmacy for same-day delivery, $69.99 (including priority fee).
• Healthy Life: Within 15 minutes, 24/7, no system requirements, AHPRA-registered doctors, same-day delivery in some areas, $39 to $59 (long consults and after-hours cost more).
• Instant Consult: Within 15 minutes on average, 6 am to midnight, app required for Apple users or Google Chrome/ Safari web browser, AHPRA-registered doctors, no information re medication delivery, $45 and bulk-billed for patients under 12 months of age.

When you need access to a doctor fast (for a minor illness or a request), there are a few providers to consider. Depending on your needs, you can choose a 24/7 provider, a service offering fast delivery, or one with GPs. Of course, prices can vary a little depending on whether you need a consultation, script, or medical certificate, but speaking to a doctor online can be far faster than waiting to book an appointment with your GP.

This text is for informational purposes only. It does not replace medical advice. Please get in touch with your GP with any medical questions you may have. Telehealth is designed to complement the care of your primary healthcare provider, not replace it.